Iran strikes Kuwait as US-Iran tensions surge in Gulf

The US military launched strikes against Iranian rocket launchers positioned on an island in the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday, citing intelligence that Iran planned to deploy the weapons to lay mines in the strategically vital waterway. The operation marked the latest chapter in an increasingly volatile confrontation between Washington and Tehran in one of the world's most important shipping corridors.

In response to the American strikes, Iranian forces have conducted military operations targeting Kuwait, a key US ally in the Gulf region. The retaliatory action signals Iran's determination to respond to what it views as American aggression, even as regional powers brace for further escalation.

The Strait of Hormuz remains critical to global energy supplies, with roughly one-fifth of the world's traded oil passing through its waters daily. The intensifying military operations have raised concerns among shipping companies and energy markets about the risk of wider conflict disrupting flows through the chokepoint.

Regional observers warn that the cycle of strikes and counter-strikes risks spiraling beyond current participants. Neighbouring countries, including India which relies heavily on Gulf energy supplies, are monitoring developments closely as diplomatic channels remain strained.